| Ecosystem management looks at conserving ecological services and restoring natural resources while meeting the socioeconomic, political and cultural and needs of society. The principal objective of ecosystem management is the maintenance and proper use of natural resources. This course will explore fundamental biophysical elements of a forested watershed. You will learn fundamental ecological and biological concepts related to “healthy” aquatic and terrestrial systems, as well as techniques used to assess aquatic and terrestrial systems that will ultimately help you build a final presentation of the status of a forested watershed – grouped by valued ecosystem components (VEC; water, trees, fish, benthic invertebrates). The course emphasizes observation, discussion, and exercises. This is a blended course with classroom-based lectures and a strong emphasis on the field components. |
